What does a smaller gauge number on a needle indicate?

A smaller gauge number on a needle indicates that the needle is thicker. In the gauge system used for needles, the gauge number inversely relates to the diameter of the needle—the smaller the gauge number, the larger the diameter. This means that a needle with a lower gauge is designed to accommodate thicker fluids, such as certain medications or blood products, making it suitable for specific procedures that require a larger opening. Thus, when selecting a needle for a particular application, understanding the implications of the gauge number—specifically that a smaller gauge corresponds to increased thickness—is crucial for effective practice in medical and diabetic care settings.